Methodical Planning Offers Long-Term Payoff For Landscaping Projects In Richmond, VA

The difference between envisioning the perfect back yard and actually seeing the project through to fruition could be as simple as blocking out a few weeks this summer. If it takes three summers in a row to accomplish everything you have in mind, then so be it because there’s no need to rush things when you’re looking for flawless results. The crucial piece of the puzzle is finding skilled providers of landscaping in Richmond VA, who have long used the seasonable months to accomplish the bulk of their beautiful work. Since we’re still in the midst of summer, now’s the time to consult local landscaping providers to see if the turf, stone, mulch and draining aspects you’ve always dreamed of can be installed over the coming months — or years.

 

According to Better Homes and Garden magazine, taking the long view to Richmond VA landscaping projects can yield the best results. A “three-year plan,” as suggested by the magazine, starts with selecting the existing shortcomings of your yard that require upgrades to improve their purpose. The magazine points out an overall lack of landscaping elements as one reason to hire a company while non-existent trees or tall shrubs that offer privacy is another often-encountered reason. “Smaller trees are also better able to adapt to the shock of being moved. For a more interesting design, plan on a mix of deciduous and evergreen varieties,” the magazine says of year one essentials.

 

Moving on to the mid-point of the three-year plan, it’s time to add the “love to have” additions to your yard. Companies like Stone River Landscapes, which provides landscaping in Richmond VA and beyond, can offer the hardscape installation that makes your yard pop with personality. The stonework and patio extensions are what offers comfort and visually-appealing additions during year two. For the third and final year, it’s time to install the “luxury touches” such as ponds, fireplaces or fountains. “Whatever you choose, you’ll be glad that you took care of the most important features in the previous years,” the magazine says.

 

Some clients would prefer that the bulk of work be accomplished during the summer months across a single season. Others will see the merit in taking things slow while methodically choosing the landscaping work they want to have done. Regardless of which path you take, it’s important to stick with the same company for the overall landscaping project in Richmond VA so the work can boast both craftsmanship and uniformity throughout.

5 Tips for Landscape Design Beginners

If you’re about to embark on some landscape design in Richmond, Va., but aren’t exactly sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place.

Whether your yard just needs a few things planted or a complete landscape makeover, here are some beginner tips for landscape design in Richmond, Va.

Make a List

A good first step in landscape design is to make a list of what you want and what you’ll need for your project. You can even make some rough sketches of your yard to help visualize what items you’ll have to get and where they will go. Are you building a patio? If so, where will it go? Do your kids need a space for playing in the yard? Is there room for a garden? These are all questions you could ask yourself while drawing your sketches and making your list.

Take Note of Sun and Wind

You can study the sun and wind patterns of your property to maximize your landscape design. For instance, if you build a patio on the west side of your house, it will get a lot of afternoon sun. Is this what you want? If you plan to build a fire pit, make sure it’s not in a spot in your yard where the wind whips through on a regular basis.

Start Small

No need to start with your most extravagant landscaping idea. If you start with some of the smaller things that won’t make or break your landscape design, your layout might become more apparent as you go along and you can make sure the bigger projects are done properly. Start by planting a small flower bed or spreading some mulch and see how your yard starts to shape up.

Find a Focal Point

I know we just said start small, but it’s also not a bad idea to find the focal point of your landscape design early and figure out how you’ll implement it. After all, the focal point is perhaps the most important element of your landscape design and it might be easier to figure out how to accentuate it once it’s in place. A breath-taking plant or tree can make all the difference in your landscape design.

Scale and Pacing

These are some of the hardest concepts for beginner landscape designers to grasp. Be sure to vary colors, shapes and sizes of plants, trees and other shrubbery throughout your yard. Also keep in mind that tall plants do best either up against a building or in the back of flower beds.